Is It Necessary To Worm An Indoor Cat?
If you own an indoor cat, you may think that he doesn't need worming. After all, if your cat doesn't ever go outside, how can he possibly be exposed to the risk of worms? Actually, your pet is at risk of contracting worms and you should worm him regularly.
Read on for more helpful information on worms and your indoor cat.
How Your Indoor Cat Could Get Worms
There are a number of ways in which your cat could be exposed to worms.
Fleas
Did you know that fleas carry worms? Well, they can, and your cat could contract worms if he is bitten by a flea that has been carried into your home on your shoes, on your clothing, or by your dog.
Worm Eggs
Worm eggs can be carried into your home on your shoes or clothes. Cats are habitually curious and may sniff at your clothes, picking up worm eggs as they do so. Put your shoes and outdoor wear out of reach of your cat.
Your Dog
If you have a dog, he will probably pick up worms when he is out and about enjoying his walks or even just pottering in the garden. It's highly likely that your house cat could pick up worms from your dog, so be sure to worm all your pets simultaneously.
Worming Your Indoor Cat
Although your indoor cat is much less likely to get worms than an outdoor one, you should still worm him regularly as a preventative measure.
The frequency of worming doses depends on a few different factors including:
- where you live
- whether you also have outdoor pets
- what worming medicine you use
The usual frequency of worming is every three months during the spring and summer when the worms are active. You can worm your indoor cat just once during the winter months and when the ground is frozen.
A worm infestation can make your cat very ill and will also mean that he is not making full use of the nutrition that you provide for him. As a result, your cat may lose nutrition and could appear lethargic and depressed.
In Conclusion
Just because you cat lives indoors, it doesn't mean that he will stay worm-free. Regular worming will eliminate the risk of your pet being affected by parasites. Ask at your vet clinic for more advice on a suitable worming programme for your indoor cat.
